Future proofing your home: What internet speed does a household need?

The benefits of full fibre internet

Whether you're working from home, streaming your favourite movies, or playing online games, the speed of your internet connection can significantly impact your online experience.

Full fibre connections typically offer speeds 20x faster than traditional connections - but how fast does your internet speed really need to be? Like really, really? Well, the answer to that kind of depends on your usage now, and what it’s likely to be in the future as your family grows and internet enabled devices become smarter and more numerous.

Read on to discover the factors that influence your household's internet speed requirements and that could help you determine the perfect speed for your needs.

Understanding internet speed

Before jumping into specific speed requirements, it's crucial to understand what internet speed means. Typically, internet speed is measured in megabits per second (Mbps) and refers to the rate at which data is transmitted from the internet to your device (download speed) and from your device to the internet (upload speed).

Faster speeds generally mean quicker downloads, smoother streaming, and reduced lag (the time between a command being selected and it being enacted on your device).

7 factors affecting internet speed needs

There are several factors that can influence the ideal internet speed for your household:

1 - Number of users: The more devices and users you have in in your household, the greater the demand on your internet connection. Each device connected to the internet consumes bandwidth, so a household with multiple users and multiple devices will require more bandwidth which means higher speeds.

2 - Internet usage: Your internet speed requirements depend on how you use the internet. Basic web browsing and email checking requires less speed than say streaming HD videos, online gaming, or video conferencing.

3 - Streaming quality: If you're a fan of HD or 4K streaming, you'll need a faster internet connection or else you will not be able to enjoy your chosen entertainment at the quality intended and which you’re paying streaming subscriptions.

4 - Gaming: Online gaming relies on low lag and a consistent connection. While the actual speed required can vary by game, faster speeds are recommended for an optimal gaming experience so that connection isn’t dropped, or you don’t experience lag.

5 - Working from home: If you work from home, a reliable and fast connection is crucial for video conferencing, uploading and downloading files, and using cloud-based applications. If you have children, you’ll also know their schoolwork is increasingly cloud-based and they will need a good connection to collect and submit assignments as well as organising timetables, contacting teachers etc.

6 - Number of smart devices: The increasing number of smart devices in homes, from thermostats to security cameras, can also place additional strain on your internet connection. As more and more consumer devices are internet enabled, the bandwidth you’ll need will increase. It’s also common for people to multiscreen which means even more separate devices consuming your home bandwidth. At Hey!Broadband, we offer a number of full fibre packages to meet even the most data-hungry households' needs.

7 - Location: Internet speed can vary by location. Urban areas tend to have faster, more reliable connections compared to rural areas. But that is beginning to change with the government’s full fibre roll out.

Determining your household's needs

Now that you understand the factors that can influence your internet speed requirements, you can begin to think about the speed you might need. You should consider your needs both now and in the future.

If you have young children you should bear in mind that their internet use will rocket as they grow older. A low usage household can quickly become a heavy usage household as children grow into teens with phones, tablets and other devices all simultaneously consuming bandwidth.

Identify your primary activities

Think about the primary online activities in your household. Are you mainly streaming videos, playing games, working from home, or a combination of these? Make a list of these activities and the estimated bandwidth they require.

What should my internet speed be?

Many internet service providers offer online speed calculators or recommendations based on household size and online activities. These tools can provide a rough estimate of the speed you need.

Test your current speed

Check your current internet speed using an online speed or bandwidth test. This will give you a baseline to compare against your calculated requirements. The easiest way to do this is to simply search ‘speed test’ or ‘bandwidth test’ in your browser.

What speed is right for you?

Hey!Broadband offers a range of full fibre broadband packages, so you can choose the right speed for your households needs. The table below gives you an idea of the internet speeds you will need depending on your household usage and size.

Choosing the right package for your needs

Once you've determined your household's internet speed needs, it's time to select the right package for you.

Compare providers: Research and compare internet service providers in your area. Consider factors such as price, reliability, and customer reviews.

Read the small print: Pay attention to the details of the internet plans, including any data caps, contract lengths, and additional fees. Pay particular attention to see if the provider will raise their process during your contract length.

Beware of Bundles: Internet Service Providers often offer bundles that include TV and phone services. If you need them, fine. Just make sure you're not paying for services you don’t use.

Upgrade when necessary: As your household's internet usage grows, don't hesitate to upgrade your plan to ensure a smooth online experience.

Consider equipment: Ask about the type of modem and router provided with your plan. High-quality equipment, like the can make a significant difference in your internet speed and reliability. You can also consider WiFi pods to boost the signal around your home.

Fit for the future

Determining the right internet speed for your household needs both now and in the future is a crucial decision. By considering factors like the number of users, types of online activities, and future growth, you can make an informed choice when selecting a broadband provider.

Remember that it's always better to have a little extra speed, than to constantly struggle with a frustratingly slow connection. With the right broadband package, your household can enjoy seamless browsing, streaming, gaming, and remote work, making your online life more enjoyable and productive – for years to come.

To find out if Hey!Broadband’s ultrafast, ultra-reliable full fibre broadband is available in your area, enter your postcode to check availability. Alternatively feel free to give our friendly Customer Service team a call on 0330 822 28 78 or drop us an email at [email protected].